06/19/2026
IMAGINE NON-VIOLENCE
Today was bigger than a documentary. It was a mirror, a conversation, and a call to action.
Today, Good Life Youth Foundation brought together youth impacted by gun violence—some directly, some indirectly—and the parents, guardians, grandmothers, and loved ones who walk alongside them every day for a special screening of Sorry Mama, a powerful documentary created by Taj Smith.
Too often, conversations about gun violence focus only on the victim or the person who pulled the trigger. Sorry Mama challenges us to look deeper. It explores the often-overlooked trauma experienced by mothers and caregivers when a child becomes involved in violence, enters the justice system, or is taken from the home.
The room was filled with honest dialogue, reflection, and emotion. Youth listened. Guardians shared. Stories were told. Perspectives shifted. Tears were shed.
What made today special wasn’t just watching a film—it was creating a space where young people and the adults who love them could sit together, process together, and begin to understand the ripple effects of the choices we make.
As we continue into Day 2 tomorrow, we’ll dive deeper into the conversation, hear more from the filmmaker, explore healing and accountability, and challenge participants to make personal commitments that strengthen their families and communities.
Real change begins when we move beyond judgment and toward understanding.
Thank you to every young person and caregiver who showed up with courage, vulnerability, and an open mind. Thank you to the Good Life Team for their relentless commitment.
The conversation continues tomorrow. THANK YOU to the Health Foundation for Western and Central New York
